Four Plants Proposed for Listing Proposed Tlireatened Status for Two Desert Fishes

July 1984 Vol. IX No. 7

Department of interior. U.S. Fish and Wildlife service Technical Bulletin Endangered Species Program, Washington, D.C. 20240

Four Plants Proposed for Listing Proposed Tlireatened Status for Another four plants have been pro- spring of 1983. It is not known who posed by the Service for addition to the removed individuals of the thornmint or Two Desert Fishes list of Endangered and Threatened spe- for what purpose they were removed, During June 1984, the reduced status cies. If the proposals are made final, the but because underlying soil was also of another two desert fishes was recog- total number of plants given protection taken, it is suspected that an attempt nized by the Service as proposals to list under the Endangered Species Act will was made to transplant individuals of them as Threatened species were pub- increase to 80. the subspecies. Since Critical Habitat lished in the Federal Register. Both the designation requires the publication of Fish Creek Springs tui chub (Gila bico- San Mateo Thornmint maps specifically indicating its location, ior euchila) and the Sonora chub (Gila the Service feels that such designation is Proposed for listing as an Endangered ditaenia) are jeopardized by habitat de- not prudent at this time because it could species (F.R. 6/8/84) is the San Mateo gradation and the introduction of exotic lead to further removal of plants, ulti- thornmint (Acanthomintha obovata ssp. fishes. The proposals bring to 18 the mately contributing to the taxon's duttonii), a member of the mint family. It number of desert fishes now being con- decline. is knowntoexist only asonesmall popu- sidered for listing as Endangered or Comments on this proposal should be lation of 2,000-3,000 individual plants in Threatened under the Endangered Spe- received by August 17,1984, at the office Edgewood County Park near Redwood cies Act, in addition to the 30 desert of the Field Supervisor, U.S. Fish and City, California. Historically, this sub- fishes already listed. species also grew on grassy serpentine Wildlife Service, 2800 Cottage Way, hillsides in locations scattered through- Room E1823, Sacramento, California Fish Creek Springs Tui Chub out San Mateo County, California. Pop- 95825. ulations at these other sites have been G. b. euchila is known only from Fish destroyed, however, presumably by Welsh's Milkweed Creek Springs, located in the Little urban development, road construction, A member of the family Asclepiada- Smoky Valley of Eureka County, Neva- and other land development activities. ceae, the Welsh's milkweed (Asclepias da, and is the only fish native to the The remaining population of this sub- welshii), is known to occur only in the spring system. This relict subspecies of species is being affected by unauthor- Coral Pink Sand Dunes area and in an tui chub once occurred in large numbers ized and uncontrolled recreational area known as the Sand Hills to the within the four formerly interconnected activities in Edgewood Park, such as northeast, both in Kane County, south- springs and their outflows, which com- habitat disturbance by ORVs and tram- ern Utah. This plant is a herbaceous per- prise Fish Creek. Unfortunately, how- pling by pedestrian and horseback traf- ennial that grows up to 10 cm tall and ever, G. b. euchila has declined fic. Other uses currently being has large, oval leaves and cream- substantially in range and numbers due considered forthe park include opening colored flowers with a rose-tinged mid- primarily to two factors. Introduced day camps, establishing picnic areas, dle. The species grows on open, rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) and and developing a golf course, all of sparsely vegetated sand dunes and on brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) prey which have the potential to affect the extensively on the native tui chubs and surviving thornmint population by continued on page 4 restricted them to spring pools in areas reducing the extent of undeveloped land of dense aquatic vegetation. The habitat and thus increasing the intensity of also has been degraded by cattle over- recreational ORV use on what will grazing the vegetation that surrounds remain. the spring system. This overgrazing The thornmint is listed as an endan- contributes to siltation from the erosion gered species by the State of California; of adjacent lands, and generally however, State law principally degrades water quality. Overgrazing addresses restrictions on trade and sal- also reduces plants that provide cover vage of plants when there is a change in and are a source of insects, upon which land use. Federal listing would provide the tui chub feeds. In addition, one the additional protection necessary to springhead has been drastically altered ensure survival of this plant in its natural to provide a livestock watering tank, and habitat. is no longer connected to the spring A designation of Critical Habitat is not system. being proposed for the San Mateo By July 1983, biologists surveying the thornmint. This decision is based mostly The San Mateo thornmint is l

ENDANGERED SPECIES TECHNICAL BULLETIN Vol. IX No. 7 (1984) Creek on Vandenberg Air Force Base. That translocation had previously been recommended by the recovery team, approved by Vandenberg officials, and incorporated into the stickleback recovery plan, but was deferred until now because of the unavailability of surplus donor stock.

The Sacramento staff assisted The Nature Conservancy (TNC), Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in developing a water management plan for Borax Lake in Harney County, Oregon. TNC has acquired a lease to Borax Lake in order to protect the Endangered Borax Lake chub (Gila Endangered Species Program regional that may be affected by proposed oil boraxoblus). The plan emphasizes the staffers have reported the following exploration and road repair projects. security of Borax Lake for the chub and activities for the month of June: Sticklebacks were discovered in several the need for restoration of marshes Region 1—The Sacramento Endan- isolated pools in and above Barka around the lake. To these ends, an artifi- gered Species Staff participated in a Slough that may soon dry up becauseof cial channel from Borax Lake to a meeting of the Unarmored Threespine the extremely low precipitation in the nearby reservoir will be partially filled Sticklebacl< (Gasterosteus aculeatus basin this year. In response to this dis- and some water will be diverted into williamsoni) Recovery Team and sur- covery, 850 sticklebacks were translo- now-dry marsh habitat. veyed portions of San Antonio Creek cated from these pools into Honda

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service James Johnson, Endangered Species The Sacramento staff met with BLM Washington, D.C. 20240 Specialist. and State officials in Ukiah, California, Robert A. Jantzen, Director Region 3, Federal BIdg., Fort Snelling, to evaluate study proposals and select a (202-343-4717) Twin Cities, MN 55111 (612-725-3500): contractor for the Arabis mcdonaldiana Robert E. Gilmore Harvey Nelson, Regional Director: (McDonald's rock-cress) study at Red Associate Director and John S. Popowski, Assistant Regional Mountain. The study is intended to pro- Endangered Species Program Manager Director: James M. Engel, Endangered vide information on the plant's ecology (202-343-4646) Species Specialist. and life history, and assist in the deter- John L. Spinks, Chief. Region 4, Richard B. Russell Federal mination of essential habitat for this spe- . Office of Endangered Species BIdg., 75 Spring St., S.W., Atlanta, GA cies. It will provide information critical to (703-235-2771) 30303(404-221-3583): James W.Pulllam, developing an appropriate management Thomas J. Parisot, Chief, Regional Director: John I. Christian, plan for the Arabis populations on pub- federal Wildlife Permit Office Assistant Regional Director: Alex B. lic land on Red Mountain, and assist with (703-235-1937) Montgomery, EndangeredSpecies Spe- the species' recovery. Clark R. Bavin, Chief, cialist. Division of Law Enforcement (202-343-9242) Region 5, Suite 700, One Gateway Center, TECHNICAL BULLETIN STAFF Newton Corner, MA 02158 (617-965- 5100): Howard Larsen, Regional Direc- Michael Bender, Editor Egg clutches were collected from 28 tor: Stephen W. Parry, Assistant Regional Denise Melio, Assistant Editor California peregrine falcon (FaIco pere- Director; Paul Nickerson, Endangered (703-235-2407) grinus) nests during April and May as Species Specialist. part of the continuing effort to improve Regional Offices Region 6, P.O. Box 25486, Denver Federal wild reproduction. Of the 103 collected, Region 1, Suite 1692, Lloyd 500 BIdg,, Center, Denver, CO 80225 (303-234- 54 eggs were viable, 26 were dead, and 500 N.E. Multnomah St. Portland, OR 2209): Galen Buterbaugh, Regional 28 had already broken in the nests prior 97232 (503-231-6118): Richard J. My- Director; John D. Green, Assistant to collection. Artificial eggs were placed shak. Regional Director-, William F. Regional Director; Barry S. Mulder, in the nests until nestlings can be fos- Shake, Assistant Regional Director, Endangered Species Specialist. tered. All eggs were transferred to the Sanford R. Wilbur, Endangered Species Region 7, 1101 E. Tudor Rd., Anchorage, Specialist. Santa Cruz Predatory Bird Research AK 99503 (907-786-3542): Robert E. Group for articial incubation. Nestlings Putz, Regional Director: Jon Nelson, Region 2, P.O. Box 1306, Albuquerque, hatched either from wild eggs or from Assistant Regional Director: Dennis NM 87103 (505-766-2321); Michael J. captivity-produced eggs will be fostered Spear, Regional Director: Conrad A. Money, Endangered Species Special- to the wild pairs. DDE contamination Fjetland, Assistant Regional Director: ist. continued to be a major factor in lower- ing reproductive success of wild pere- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Regions grines in California. Region 1: California, Hawaii. Idaho, Nevada. Oregon. Washington, and Pacific Trust Territories. Region 2: Arizona. New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas Region 3: Illinois. Indiana. Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin Region 4: Alabama. Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky. Louisiana. Mississippi. North Carolina. South Carolina. Tennessee. Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. Region 5; Connecticut. Delaware. Maine. Maryland. Massa- chusetts. New Hampshire. New Jersey. New York, Pennsylvania. Rhode Island. Vermont. Virginia, and West Virginia. During a successful field trip to work Region 6: Colorado. Kansas. Montana. Nebraska. North Dakota. South Dakota. Utah, and Wyoming. Region 7: Alaska on Mirabilis macfarlanei (McFarlane's The ENDANGERED SPECIES TECHNICAL BULLETIN is published monthly by the four-o'clock), two new colonies of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Department of the Interior, Washington. D.C. 20240. continued on page 6

ENDANGERED SPECIES TECHNICAL BULLETIN Vol. IX No. 7 (1984) out such actions. Considering the needs Gulf Coast Beach of listed species early in the planning process usually means that potential Mice Proposed problems can be addressed by modify- ing, not halting, an action. for Listing In addition to the habitat conservation measures mentioned above, listing the as Endangered three beach mice would bring other benefits. It would draw attention to their Three subspecies of beach mice precarious status, mandate develop- endemic to the Gulf Coast of southern ment of a recovery plan, and possibly Alabama and northwestern Florida have provide for Federal aid to cooperative been proposed by the Service for listing State conservation programs. In addi- as Endangered (F.R. 6/7/84). The Ala- Destruction of their sand dune habitat tion, listing them as Endangered would bama beach mouse (Peromyscus polio- has resulted in severe declines of beach make it illegal to take, possess or engage notus ammobates), Perdido Key beach mice. in interstate or international trafficking mouse (P. p. trissyllepsis), and Chocta- in these mammals, except under permit whatchee beach mouse fP. p. allophrys) found along not more than 26.6 miles of for scientific or conservation purposes. are in danger of extinction due to de- Gulf Coast dunes, or approximately Listing the three beach mice as Endan- struction of their sand dune habitat by one-fourth of the original range. gered also might spur completion of the residential and commercial develop- The major threat to beach mouse hab- Service's Bon Secour National Wildlife ment, recreational activity, and tropical itat continues to be human destruction Refuge in Alabama, which contains storms. The proposal, if approved, will of the coastal sand dune ecosystem for some beach mouse habitat. So far, give these animals protection under the commercial and residential develop- about 2.6 miles of beach mouse habitat Endangered Species Act of 1973. ment. This development often isolates on the refuge have been acquired within small areas of habitat, thereby fragment- Beach mice have small bodies, haired the 3.7 miles authorized by Congress. tails, relatively large ears, protuberant ing populations and upsetting gene Comments on this proposal are due eyes, and coloration that blends well flow. High density multiple housing can by August 6, 1984, to the Endangered with the sandy soils and dune vegetation act as a barrier to migration between Species Field Supervisor, U.S. Fish and of their habitat. The Alabama beach populations. If any such population seg- Wildlife Service, 2747 Art Museum Drive, mouse, also called the Alabama Gulf ment is extirpated, it cannot be replaced Jacksonville, Florida 32207. Coast beach mouse or white-fronted by natural immigration. In addition to mouse, has an average overall length of residential and commercial develop- 5 inches, pale gray upper parts, and ment, recreational useof the sand dunes white underparts and tail. The Perdido by pedestrians and vehicles can destroy Key beach mouse, also referred to as the vegetation essential for dune develop- Blacl< Market Perdido Bay or Florala beach mouse, ment and maintenance. Such loss of measures an average of 5 inches from vegetation results in extensive wind and in Protected head to tail. Its upper parts are grayish water erosion, reducing the effective- fawn to wood brown with a pale yellow ness of coastal dunes as a protective Birds Exposed hue, underparts are white, and its tail barrier and ultimately destroying beach ranges from white to pale grayish mouse habitat. Fish and Wildlife Service special brown. In the Choctawhatchee beach Current controls affecting develop- agents, along with State conservation mouse, overall length averages 5.2 ment in Gulf Coast sand dunes do not officers, arrested more than 30 individu- inches and the upper parts are orange- make any special provisions for beach als in 14 States in a crackdown against brown to yellow-brown. Like the Ala- mouse habitat protection. They do not illegal commercialization in birds of bama and Perdido Key beach mice, the prevent development in such habitat, or prey. This action culminates a 3-year underparts of this mouse are also white. deal with the specific needs of the mice undercover investigation that exposed a Human and natural alterations of in relation to development, but simply thriving black market in federally pro- coastal ecosystems have resulted in establish general requirements for the tected birds. Agents were able to infil- severe declines of beach mice. Most of siting and construction of buildings, trate the networks of individuals the suitable habitat has been lost utilities, and access corridors. involved in illegal raptortakingandtrad- because of residential and commercial The Service has proposed a designa- ing, and to obtain evidence of violations development, recreational activity, tion of Critical Habitat for the Alabama, by subjects throughout the United beach erosion, and vegetational succes- Perdido Key, and Choctawhatchee States. The operation was carried out by sion. Competition from introduced beach mice as part of the listing pro- 150 Service special agents and an equal house mice (Mus musculus) and preda- posal. This area encompasses 38.3 miles number of State wildlife officers who tion by domestic cats (Felis catus) also of coastline in Baldwin County, Ala- served search and arrest warrants in seem to be causing problems. In addi- bama, and Escambia, Walton, and Bay Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, tion, tropical storms are a constant Counties, Florida. If the listing and Criti- Illinois, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, New threat to the reduced populations of cal Habitat proposal is approved. Fed- York, Texas, and Utah. Those arrested beach mice. Hurricanes Eloise (1975) eral agencies will be required to ensure were charged with violating various Fed- and Frederick (1979) were especially that any actions they fund, authorize, or eral wildlife statutes as well as smug- bad, destroying large areas of habitat for carry out are not likely to jeopardize the gling, conspiracy, and mail fraud. all three subspecies. continued survival of the beach mice or Agents also seized a large numberof live adversely modify their Critical Habitat. Several recent status surveys and raptors such as gyrfalcons (Faico rusti- Among the Federal actions that could be habitat analyses have indicated that the colus) and Endangered peregrine fal- situation continues to worsen. All three affected by the proposal are the Federal cons. In total, more than 80 felony beach mice historically ranged along flood insurance program, Federal con- charges are pending. approximately 103 miles of coastal sand struction loans, and certain U.S. Army dunes in Baldwin County, Alabama, and Corps of Engineers projects. It should Escambia, Okaloosa, Walton, and Bay be emphasized that a Critical Habitat Counties, Florida. At present, they are designation would not necessarily rule

ENDANGERED SPECIES TECHNICAL BULLETIN Vol. IX No. 7 (1984) Four Plants located, measured, and tagged. Most of the site has been cleared for pasture and Proposed for Listing the original vegetation destroyed. The beautiful goetzea is found in the remain- continued from page 1 ing undisturbed area. Population pres- sure and the need for pasturelands the lee slopes of the dunes in the shade could force further clearing in the area. of trees. This site contains the largest known Approximately 8,500 individuals are specimens, and the only that are known currently known to exist, but these to have produced flowers and fruit since remaining plants are in danger of extinc- 1936. tion due to off-road vehicle (ORV) activ- The Service has determined that ity and livestock grazing. In some areas, designation of Critical Habitat for Goef- livestock affects more than 50 percent of zea elegans is not prudent at this time. the plants. This high incidence of graz- Publication of Critical Habitat localities ing is much morethan many species can This flower of the Goetzea elegans along the roads where the species tolerate. Another factor affecting the represents the first Itnown photograph occurs would increase the risk of taking continued existence oi Asclepias welsh- of this species in bloom. Until recently, or vandalism. ii is the fragile nature of the habitat. The blossoms had not been observed since The only known Federal activities that dunes are easily degraded by surface 1936. could be affected by any final rule to list disturbances and are subject to effects the beautiful goetzea as an Endangered from activities on adjoining lands. Given ful goetzea in the months of May to species are those of the Federal High- the severity of the threats to this species, August. Usually a single orange flower is way Administration. In the event that along with its limited distribution and borne on a curved stalk in the leaf axil highways are widened or resurfaced in small numbers, the Service has pro- and there may be several terminal flow- this area, a strong commitment will be posed to list the Welsh's milkweed as ers which are symmetrical and funnel- needed to protect the species. Without Endangered (F.R. 6/6/84). Currently, shaped. The fruits are one-seeded, the protection provided by the Endan- there are no Federal, State, or local laws orange, and about 3/4 of an inch in gered Species Act, Goetzea elegans or regulations that provide for the pro- diameter. could be brought to extinction or its hab- tection of this species. In August 1979, the Fish and Wildlife itat substantially modified. A designation of Critical Habitat is Service contracted Dr. Jose L. Vivaldi, a Comments on this proposal are due to also part of this proposal. Since most of resident botanist of Puerto Rico, to con- the Ecological Services Field Supervi- the plants are known to occur on Federal duct a status survey of some plants sor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, P.O. lands and are not subject to commercial thought to be candidates for listing as Box 3005 - Marina Station, Mayaguez, or private collecting pressures, the Ser- endangered or threatened in Puerto Puerto Rico 00709-3005, by August 17, vice feels that Asclepias welshii would Rico and the Virgin Islands. Reports and 1984. benefit from such a determination. The documentation resulting from this sur- Mancos Milk-vetch area proposed includes the entire habi- vey recommended that Goetzea elegans tat currently occupied by the species in be proposed for listing as an Endan- A member of the pea family. Astraga- Kane County, Utah, in both the Coral gered species. The Service has now lus humillimus (the Mancos milk-vetch) Pink Sand Dunes and in a small area in issued a proposed rule to this effect is a perennial species with small com- the Sand Hills. (F.R. 6/18/84), which is the first for a pound leaves composed of many oval, Comments on the proposal to list this Puerto Rican plant. light green leaflets and lavender flowers plant are invited from all interested The beautiful goetzea is currently that have a sweet, pungent fragrance. It agencies, organizations, and individu- known from only three sites, all in the grows in low, tufted mats 31-45 cm in als, and are due to the Regional Director, Quedradillas area of northern Puerto diameter. The species currently is Region 6 (address on page 2 of the BUL- Rico. Two of these sites are located in known in small numbers only from a LETIN) by August 6, 1984. the Guajataca Gorge, and the third is a ridge west of Waterflow in San Juan few miles to the east. Of the two sites in County, New Mexico, where it is threat- Beautiful Goetzea the gorge, one is privately owned. The ened by habitat disturbance. The beautiful goetzea (Goetzea ele- other is a road site owned and managed All three populations, which total gans) is found only in the semi- by the Commonwealth Department of about 7,000 plants, occur on Navajo evergreen seasonal forests that occur Transportation and Public Works, and Indian Reservation land. The largest on limestone in northern Puerto Rico. consists of one or two adult plants and population, consisting of approximately Only 59 plants are known to exist, some three or more root suckers. This site is 5,000 plants, is within an active oil field, on land owned by the Government of the periodically cleared of vegetation dur- and the number of roads, oil wells, and Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and oth- ing routine road maintenance, which pipelines is increasing. (Although the ers on privately owned land. The con- results in serious habitat disturbance. land and surface rights are owned by the tinued existence of this species is being This practice has resulted in the plant's Navajo Tribe, the leasable mineral rights threatened mostly by road construction, stunted growth and lack of flowers, are privately owned.) A second popula- periodic trimming of roadside vegeta- fruits, and siblings. The second site in tion of about 1,000 individuals was tion, and clearing of forests for cattle Guajataca Gorge is a quarter of a mile bisected by two electrical transmission pastures. from the first, on a hillside nearthe road, lines more than 20 years ago, and the Goetzea elegans was discovered in and contains about six plants. (In 1955, species has not repopulated the dis- 1827 and is named for the German theo- this site had about 30 adult plants.) The turbed land directly underneath the logian J. E. Goetze. The species is an site is threatened by destruction and lines. An upgrading of the transmission evergreen shrub or small tree that grows modification due to road construction, line is planned for 1985, but the Western up to 30-40 feet tall with stems up to 8-10 stone quarrying, and other development. Area Power Administration (WAPA) is inches thick. The leaves of this species The third site is located in a ravine considering the species in its planning. are simple, alternate, and 2-4 inches several miles east of the gorge, and con- Damage to nearby plants from mainte- long and 1-2 inches wide. Flowers and tains the largest population of the beau- nance or recreational off-road vehicles fruits have been observed on the beauti- tiful goetzea. Over 30 plants have been using the right-of-way could intensify in

ENDANGERED SPECIES TECHNICAL BULLETIN Vol. IX No. 7 (1984) the future. The third and smallest popu- cies that are likely to become endan- Florida has more alligator habitatthan lation is found in an area that is expected gered within the foreseeable future. any other State within the species' to be explored for oil within the next The American alligator occurs in vary- range. One habitat type, the palustrine year. ing densities in wetland habitats emergent (which includes the Ever- Because of these threats, the species' throughout the Southeastern U.S., glades and other freshwater marshes), very localized distribution, and its poor including all or parts of the States of has undergone a loss of approximately tolerance of habitat disturbance, Astra- Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Florida, 25 percent in the last 30 years due to tgalus humillimus has been proposed for Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, drainage and conversion for agricultural listing as an Endangered species (F.R. North Carolina, South Carolina, and use. However, the total amount of fresh 6/28/84). A formal designation of Criti- Texas. Crocodilians such as the Ameri- marsh habitat still exceeds 3 million cal Habitat was not included in the pro- can alligator are the only extant repre- acres and is likely to remain an abundant posal because publishing detailed maps sentatives of the order Archosauria, and habitat type in the future. Florida's lake and population locations would make this species represents one of the only habitats, although smaller in total size the species more vulnerable to vandal- two extant species of the genus Alliga- than the fresh marshes, are highly pro- ism; nonetheless, the plant and its habi- tor. Having evolved some 180-200 mil- ductive for alligators, often having den- tat would receive protection under lion years ago, the crocodilians show sities well in excess of those in marsh Section 7 of the Endangered Species many advanced characteristics such as areas. Overall, habitat loss does not cur- Act. The Navajo Tribe, WAPA, and a four-chambered heart, a rudimentary rently pose a threat to the status of the Bureau of Land Management, which are diaphragm, and elaborate maternal American alligator in Florida. responsible for administering the habi- behavior. The commercial demand for alligator tat, are aware of the population sites. The alligator was first classified as products was responsible for the over- Comments on the listing proposal are Endangered in 1967 throughout its harvests that caused population welcome, and are due the Regional range due to a concern over poorly reg- declines during the 1950s and 1960s. A Director, Region 2 (address on BUL- ulated harvests. Subsequently, as a 1969 amendment to the Lacey Act re- LETIN page 2) by August 13, 1984. result of Federal and State protection, versed this problem by prohibiting inter- the alligator recovered rapidly in many state commerce in illegally taken Effects of the Listings if parts of its range. The Service has re- reptiles and their parts and products. Approved classified it as Threatened in Florida and This act reinforced State laws protecting If each proposal is made final, each in certain coastal areas of South Caro- the alligator by providing Federal plant will receive protection under the lina and Georgia, and as Threatened due authority for dealing effectively with ille- Endangered Species Act of 1973, as to Similarity of Appearance in Louisiana gal activities in the market system. In amended. Conservation measures pro- and Texas. addition, the Endangered Species Act of vided to species listed as Endangered In June 1982, the Service began addi- 1973 added heavy penalties which under the Act include recognition, re- tional status assessments of the alligator further enhanced the control of illegal covery actions, requirements for Fed- in Florida. Data resulting from these taking, and Stateand Federal authorities eral protection, and prohibitions against assessments indicate that the American have been generally successful in con- certain practices. Under Section 7 of the alligator in Florida is not likely to trolling such activity. .Act, Federal agencies would be required become endangered within the foresee- The State of Florida has adopted an ^to consult with the Fish and Wildlife Ser- able future, and thus its current designa- alligator management plan and is con- vice to ensure that any action they fund, tion as a Threatened species should be ducting an extensive research program authorize, or carry out is not likely to changed. However, because of the alli- designed to ensure against overharvest jeopardize the survival of the listed spe- gator's similarity of appearance to other of the species. Since uncontrolled har- cies or adversely modify their habitats. endangered crocodilians and because vesting was the reason for past over- Until a final decision on the listing pro- hides or other parts of the animal may be exploitation in some areas, and posal is reached. Federal agencies are subject to trade, the Service believes it is sustainable yields from harvested popu- required only to "confer" with the Ser- necessary to maintain some control over lations are biologically limited, Florida is vice, a non-binding procedure. commercial activities involving alliga- committed to extremely restricted har- Interstate and international trafficking tors in the State of Florida. The classifi- vests. The only exception to this would in these plants without a permit will be cation of Threatened duetoSimilarityof be in very localized areas where poten- prohibited, with certain exceptions, if Appearance, which is authorized under tially serious conflicts exist between they are listed. In addition. Section 9 of Section 4 of the Endangered Species humans and alligators. In these cases, the Act makes it unlawful to remove and Act, will aid effective law enforcement intentional overharvests may occasion- reduce to possession Endangered and could help ensure the conservation ally be authorized to remove any threat plants from lands under Federal of less secure alligator populations, as to human safety and to promote public jurisdiction. well as other crocodilians, that are still tolerance of this sometimes hazardous Threatened or Endangered. (See map in Reclassification BULLETIN Vol. VIII No. 11.) continued on page 8 Proposed for Florida Alligator The Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed to reclassify the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) in Florida, where the species is currently classified as Threatened, to the classifi- cation of "Threatened due to Similarity ^of Appearance" (F.R. 6/20/84). This pro- fposed change is based on evidence that the Florida alligator is not biologically Productive alligator populations are well distributed throughout Florida, with threatened, a legal status given to spe- over 6.7 million acres of wetland habitat currently occupied by the species.

ENDANGERED SPECIES TECHNICAL BULLETIN Vol. IX No. 7 (1984) carbon exposure have been assessed in tion activities. A proposal to list this spe- Regional Briefs adjacent shallow bays where whooping cies as Endangered is expected to be continued from page 2 cranes (Grus americana) are known to published shortly in the Federal feed. Questions involving the spread of Register. plants were discovered through helicop- the materials into the food chain and ter surveys. This brings the total to three their eventual impact on wintering sites in Oregon and four in Idaho. whooping cranes at Aransas will have to be addressed. The Jacksonville Field Station is involved in a Section 7 consultation with^ the Federal Highway Administration As of May 30, over 11,300 cui-ui (FHWA) concerning the completion of (Chasmistes cujus) had been captured This year was the most successful I nterstate 75 from the Fort Myers area to in the Marble Bluff Fish Facility and breeding season ever for Arizona'ssmall Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Of primary released upstream. This was the second desert population of bald eagles concern in this issue is the Endangered largest run to pass through the facility; (Haliaeetus leucocephalus). Mr. Teryl Florida panther (Felis concolor coryi). the largest run occurred in 1982 when Grubb of the U.S. Forest Service Rocky Discussions are taking place with the 14,000 fish were captured. This year's Mountain Forest and Range Experiment National Park Service, the Florida Game spawning run began on April 9 and grad- Station in Tempe, Arizona, reported that and Fresh Water Fish Commission, and ually increased to a peak of 1,444 fish on 15 pairs (including four that are newly the FHWA to determine alternatives that May 4, after which the run slowly discovered) laid eggs this year. Eggs might facilitate panther movement decreased to only a few stragglers by failed to hatch at five sites, and nestlings across the highway. May 25. succumbed to unknown causes at two The fish continued to ignore the additional sites. A total of 15 eaglets Pyramid Lake Fishway in favor of the fledged from the eight remaining sites. river entrance as a gateway to their Although all four new sites were found April was the height of the nesting sea- spawning grounds. A recent increase in with eggs, only one of these—a most son for the Endangered Mississippi Pyramid Lake's elevation allowed cui-ui unusual nest in aponderosapineSmiles sandhill crane (Grus canadensis pulla). free and easy access over the former from the nearest riverine habitat- Surveys found three nests, with two Truckee River delta. However, only a yielded fledged young. eggs in each nest. Nest 1 was in an area fraction of those fish reaching the stil- that has been used for 13 of the past 15 ling basin below Marble Bluff Dam could years. The two eggs were floated and be captured for transport over the dam. showed no sign of embryonic activity. For this reason, we believe that several Peregrine falcon (Faico peregrinus) Nest 2 had a pipped egg in the process of thousand cui-ui spawned in the margi- nesting success in the Big Bend area of hatching and a viable egg. A subsequent nal habitat downstream of the dam. west Texas was disappointing again this visit observed the first hatchling as a year. Only one eyrie fledged any young, healthy chick which had left the nest. which was comparable to last year's The second egg also hatched, but the results. In a cooperative effort, the chick appeared malformed and did not Region 2—Regional office personnel National Park Service and the Fish and survive. Nest 3 was in an area cleared by^^ assisted the New Mexico Department of Wildlife Service plan to retrieve eggshell the Young Adult Conservation Corps^^ Game and Fish and the U.S. Forest Ser- fragments and prey remains from sev- (YACC) several years ago. This was the vice in a renovation of Dry Creek in the eral of the eyries to determine if pesti- third consecutive year for nesting in this Gila Wilderness. This work was done to cide contamination might be a factor in area. remove introduced brown and rainbow the poor reproductive performance. trout prior to the stocking of Endan- gered Gila trout (Salmo gilae), a native species, into this stream. In the past 3 Region 5—Regional Director Howard years, recovery work for the Gila trout Region 4—The annual May visits to the Larsen, and Roger Hogan and Paul has involved stream improvement work known Alabama green pitcher plant Nickerson of the regional endangered on Iron Creek, building a barrier on Little (Sarracenia oreophila) colonies were species staff presented six bald eagles Creek, and stream renovation and re- held during the week of May 21 by the from Nova Scotia, Canada, to Richard stocking with Gila trout. Now Dry Creek Jackson, Mississippi, Endangered Spe- Cronin, Director of the Division of is being readied for a transplant from cies Field Office in ordertogatherstatus Fisheries and Wildlife in Massachusetts. Spruce Creek. With the success of three information. Some very encouraging The eagles were presented in a formal transplanted populations, four of the signs indicated that management ceremony held at Hanscom Airfield in five Gilatrout populations will have been actions initiated since last May are pay- Bedford, Massachusetts, on June 14. On duplicated and the species can be con- ing off. There was an obvious improve- June 29, personnel from the Pennsylva- sidered for reclassification. Both the ment in plant health and vigor, and nia Game Commission, accompanied State of New Mexico and the Forest Ser- increased flowering activity at many col- by Paul Nickerson, brought 12 bald vice are to be congratulated for their ony sites. The six colony sites burned eagles from Saskatchewan, Canada, for excellent work toward the recovery of during last winter's dormant season had later release at two sites in this Endangered species. the most noted response. Habitat condi- Pennsylvania. tions at all of the sites showed a marked improvement over last year, with noted reductions in competition from other During periodic sampling of sedi- plants. Region 6—On May 7, 1984, Region 6 ments along the Intracoastal Waterway personnel met with representatives from adjacent to Aransas National Wildlife the Wyoming Game and Fish Depart- Refuge in Texas, the U.S. Army Corps of ment and University of Wyoming to dis- Engineers has turned up sediment sam- The Jacksonville, Florida, Endan- cuss the Wyoming toad (Bufo ples containing up to 10,000 parts per gered Species Field Station personnel hemiophrys baxteri). The toad, listed asi million (1%) for oil and grease. Section 7 found that one of the few remaining sites Endangered on January 17, 1984, was' consultation on waterway dredging has for Dicerandra immaculata (Lakela's once abundant in the Laramie Basin, been delayed until the impacts of hydro- mint) had been destroyed by construc- Wyoming. Discussions centered on the

ENDANGERED SPECIES TECHNICAL BULLETIN Vol. IX No. 7 (1984) upcoming survey work, the current sta- had been planning to obtain eggs from thousands. The Service successfully tus of the toad, and future recovery these captive fish. Previously, approxi- removed Arctic foxes from Agattu in the activities. mately 200,000 eggs had been taken and late 1970s. In an effort to reestablish a Last year, only three toads were hatched. The UDWR also has implanted breeding population of the goose, the observed. Two immature toads that radio transmitters on nine June suckers Service for the past four years has been were collected during summer survey and released them into Utah Lake. This releasing at Agattu wild family groups of work died in captivity, and one adult was fish was proposed for listing as Endan- Aleutian geese caught on Buldir Island. • observed during the fall. Surveys con- gered on July 2,1984. (See story in next Although spring surveys in 1982 and ducted during May 1984 located seven month's BULLETIN.) 1983 revealed that small numbers of male toads where the juveniles were Aleutian geese were returning to Agattu found last year, a 7 to 8-square-mile area and nearby Alaid/Nizki Islands, no evi- located on private land. dence of nesting could be found. Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee This summer, Aleutian Islands Unit- (IGBC) members and representatives National Wildlife Refuge personnel from three conservation organizations found 3 nests and observed a brood, On June 13, representatives from the toured the Northern Continental Divide, confirming that the recovery effort is Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Cabinet/Yaak, Selkirk, and Yellowstone indeed succeeding. Two pairs of geese Land Management, U.S. Forest Service, grizzly bear ecosystems during the week were also seen on Alaid/Nizki, where National Park Service, and the States of of June 4,1984. The main purpose of the captive raised birds were released in Idaho and Wyoming met in Jackson, tour, which was conducted by the Forest 1981. More encouraging news came in Wyoming, to discuss the present and Service, was to familiarize IGBC from the field crew at Chagulak Island in future management needs of the Gray's members with the specific grizzly bear the eastern Aleutian Islands. Until 1982, Lake flock of whooping cranes. Discus- ecosystems and the problems/issues when a single Aleutian goose nest was sion centered on habitat management involved with each area. During the tour, found on Chagulak, the only known and modifications that may be consid- the group met with five separate panels breeding population for Aleutian geese ered in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, made up of local residents to discuss was Buldir Island. This summer, eight the need to finalize the whooping crane grizzly recovery and management Aleutian goose nests were found at Cha- data base, and on the need for further efforts. Members also met with biolo- gulak in a relative shorttime. Many more utilization of Section 6 funds for devel- gists from State wildlife agencies to dis- pairs are thought to be nesting there. cuss present and potential problems oping activities dealing with these Meanwhile, efforts to eliminate Arctic with grizzly management. cranes. foxes from other Aleutian Islands are continuing. Amukta Island is nowconsi- dered fox free, and already small The Service received a report on June Region 7—After being eliminated from numbers of Aleutian geese—probably 27 from the Utah Division of Wildlife Agattu Island by introduced Arctic foxes from nearby Chagulak Island—have Resources (UDWR) that 25 June (Alopex lagopus), Aleutian Canada been seen on the island. The future of suckers (Chasmistes liorus) had been geese (Branta canadensis leucopareia) the Aleutian Canada goose looks bright-

nado National Forest in Santa Cruz few sites in Mexico within the Rio Mag- Two Desert Fishes County. Sycamore Creek normally dalena drainage. continued from page 1 flows only about 3.7 miles through a nar- Its extremely limited distribution row riparian canyon, forming a series of makes the Sonora chub vulnerable to chubs in only three of the four spring- pools and small riffles over a bedrock danger from almost any habitat distur- heads and none of the outflows. Accord- and rubble substrate. It is intermittent bances, particularly during intermittent ingly, this once plentiful subspecies has during various times of the year, but the stream flow. A 1983 status survey pre- been proposed for listing as Threatened pools are maintained by underground pared by C. O. Minckley, under contract (F.R. 6/6/84). The proposal included a flow. During periods of heavy rainfall, to the Fish and Wildlife Service, recom- designation of Critical Habitat for the the creek reaches the International mended protection of thefishduetothis four headwater springs of Fish Creek, Border, a short distance further, at restricted distribution and threats to the their outflows, and a surrounding 50- which time the chub presumably moves fragile habitat posed by potential foot riparian conservation zone to main- downstream into the State of Sonora. actions such as introductions of exotic tain water quality. The species is known from only a very fishes and their parasites, siltation from Comments on the proposed rule are mining operations, water pollution, and welcome from all interested agencies, streamflow depletion. One threat origi- organizations, and individuals, and are nates from uranium deposits that were due to the Regional Director, Region 1 discovered during 1981 on the upper (see page 2 of the BULLETIN for eastern slopes of the Sycamore drain- address), by August 6, 1984. age. Although no active mining is cur- Sonora Chub rently planned for the area, the claims are being maintained, and future mining Another desert fish, the Sonora chub, carried out without regard forthe habitat inhabits an area in southern Arizona and could have severe adverse effects on the adjacent Sonora, Mexico. This fish is a chub. Accordingly, a proposal to list the stream pool dweller, but it is highly Sonora chub as Threatened was pub- secretive and little is known about its ISHi-fcrt I j lished in the July 6,1984, Federal Regis- behavior or habitat preferences. The Sonora chub, a small (generally less ter. Included in the proposed rule is a In the U.S., this small member of the than 125 mm total length) member of the designation of Critical Habitat for Yank's Tinnow family occurs only in Sycamore minnow family, is distinguished by two Creek and its headwater tributary, prominent lateral bands and a dark spot Yank's Spring, located within the Coro- at the base of the tail. continued on page 8

ENDANGERED SPECIES TECHNICAL BULLETIN Vol. IX No. 7 (1984) Two Desert Fishes continued from page 1 BOX SCORE OF LISTINGS/RECOVERY PLANS ENDANGERED 1 THREATENED SPECIES Spring and a5-mile stretch of Sycamore Category U.S. U.S. & Foreign j U.S. U.S. & Foreign SPECIES* HAVING Creek, along with a surrounding 25-foot Only Foreign Only 1 Only Foreign Only TOTAL PLANS riparian conservation zone, all of which is within Coronado National Forest. Mammals 15 19 233 1 3 0 22 292 21 Comments on the proposal to list the Birds 52 14 144 1 3 0 0 213 50 Sonora chub are welcome, and are due Reptiles e 6 60 j 8 4 13 99 10 to the Regional Director, Region 2 Amphibians 5 0 8 j 3 0 0 16 4 (address on page 2), by August 6. Fishes 30 3 11 1 12 1 0 57 30 Available Conservation Snails 3 0 1 1 5 0 0 9 6 Measures Clams 22 0 ^ I 0 0 0 24 1 Crustaceans 3 0 0 ! 1 0 0 4 1 If the listing proposals are made final, Insects 7 0 0 ; 4 2 0 13 5 both fishes and their habitat will receive Plants 60 3 0 1 9 2 2 76 26 the protection authorized for Threat- TOTAL 205 45 459 1 48 9 37 803 154" ened species under the Endangered Species Act. Federal agencies are 'Separate populations of a species, listed both as Endangered and Threatened, are tallied required to consult with the Fish and twice. Species which are thus accounted for are the gray wolf, bald eagle, American Wildlife Service to ensure that any alligator, green sea turtle, and Olive ridley sea turtle. actions they fund, authorize, or carry out ••More than one species may be covered by some plans. are not likely to jeopardize the survival of Number of Recovery Plans approved: 132 listed species or adversely modify their Number of species currently proposed for listing: 37 animals Critical Habitat. Until a final decision is 34 plants made on the listing proposals. Federal agencies must only "confer" with the Number of Species with Critical Habitats determined: 59 Service, a non-binding procedure. No Number of Cooperative Agreements signed with States: 40 fish & wildlife significant effects on current Federal 13 plants activities are expected. June 30, 1984 Because the threats to the survival of these two fishes are from habitat degra- dation rather than intentional taking, both listing proposals contain a special rule to allow collection without a Federal Florida Alligator permit State collecting permits are continued from page 5 obtained and all other State wildlife regulations are satisfied. Such taking would species. This comprehensive commit- American alligators in 50 CFR 17.42, th^ be limited to educational, scientific, ment by the Florida Game and Fresh Service believes that the conservation of propagation, and other conservation Water Fish Commission to research and listed populations of the American alli- purposes consistent with the Act. Inci- management of the species should gator and other crocodilians can be dental take by anglers would not violate ensure healthy alligator populations in ensured. The Similarity of Appearance the Act if the fish are immediately the State. provisions have already proven effective returned to the water. The reclassification proposal, if it in the State of Louisiana. Aside from the activities exempted by becomes final, will be a formal recogni- Comments on this proposal are the special rules, all other protective tion by the Fish and Wildlife Service of invited and are due by September 18, prohibitions contained in 50 CFR 17.31 the biologically secure status of the 1984, to the Jackson Endangered Spe- would apply. Other benefits of the list- American alligator in Florida. By listing cies Field Station, U.S. Fish and Wildlife ings would be the development of recov- it under the Similarity of Appearance Service, Jackson Mall Office Center, ery plans and possible Federal funding provisions of the Endangered Species Suite 316,300 Woodrow Wilson Avenue, of State conservation programs. Act, and enforcing the special rules for Jackson, Mississippi 39213.

July 1984 Vol. IX No. 7 FIRST CLASS __ - __ — ^^ POSTAGE AND FEES PAID U.S. DEPARTIVIENT OF THE INTERIOR ~ S == — — — — = —= — — PERIVIIT NO. G-77 ^ =

Department of interior, U.S. Fish ana Wildlife Service Technical Bulletin Endangered Species Program, Washington, D C. 20240

ENDANGERED SPECIES TECHNICAL BULLETIN Vol. IX No. 7 (1984)